Going on vacation this summer? People tend to travel to distant destinations during this season, and for many cat lovers, taking their feline friend with them is a no-brainer. If you are flying, there are some special considerations to ensure the best airplane travel with your cat.

Well before your flight, schedule a trip to the veterinarian to make sure your feline is in good health to board a plane. According to Animal Planet, most airlines require documentation from vets to ensure sick cats and dogs do not fly and risk their own health and that of other passengers. During this visit, your vet will also check for clinical signs of cat illness or pain in cats that might make flying dangerous or uncomfortable for them. He or she may also recommend medications to make the flight easier on the feline.

VCA Animal Hospitals reports that some airlines will allow you to carry your cat into the cabin. Usually, provisions for this privilege include that your cat stays in its carrier throughout the flight and does not disturb other passengers. If your feline has certain cat behavior problems or anxiety that might disrupt others, talk to your vet about possible sedatives.

Emergency

In case of emergency during normal business hours, please call us immediately. If you have an emergency outside of our normal business hours, please contact a local emergency animal hospital.

Specialty Care

As part of the VCA family, we have over 83 specialty hospitals across the US and Canada which provide referral specialty care, so there may be one near you. Enter ZIP to find VCA specialty care hospitals near you.